Democrats Propose Legislation Clashing With Haredi Demands on Next Government

Members of the Democratic Party have unveiled a legislative package aimed at reshaping the composition of the Judicial Selection Committee, limiting the tenure of the Prime Minister, and reforming the kashrut (kosher certification) system. Some of these proposals directly conflict with the demands of Haredi parties involved in negotiations for the formation of the next government.

The proposed legislation includes the cancellation of laws concerning the Police Internal Investigations Department and the legal advisors, the reinstatement of the previous composition of the Judicial Selection Committee, and the annulment of laws that expanded the authority of rabbinical courts. It also calls for a reform of the kashrut system, alongside a proposal to limit the Prime Minister's term and a law preventing individuals indicted for a felony from serving in office.

Meanwhile, discussions surrounding the draft law on military conscription for Haredim are ongoing. Avigdor Lieberman, who presented his 2018 draft law as a potential basis for negotiations with the Haredim, is expected to play a significant role in these discussions. The establishment of a temporary Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, as permitted by Knesset law, would allow for oversight of the defense establishment even while the current government remains in office.

Despite Lieberman's indication that his 2018 proposal could serve as a starting point for negotiations on the conscription law, significant gaps remain. The United Torah Judaism party has not yet decided on joining a potential government, and their refusal to support an early election for Knesset Speaker does not necessarily predict their voting patterns on the speaker's election or their participation in a future government.